Model Answer

Clean energy transition means shifting from fossil fuels towards renewable and low-carbon energy. India has crossed 300 GW of non-fossil power capacity, making this transition central to green growth.

Economic and Development Benefits

1. Energy security reduces fossil-fuel import dependence.
2. Green jobs emerge in manufacturing and installation. e.g: PM Surya Ghar can generate employment across the solar value chain.
3. Domestic manufacturing strengthens industrial capacity. e.g: PLI Scheme for solar PV modules.
4. Farmer incomes can improve through decentralised solar power. e.g: PM-KUSUM.
5. New industries create investment opportunities. e.g: National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Environmental Benefits and Challenges

1. Lower emissions support India’s climate commitments.
2. Cleaner energy reduces air pollution.
3. Land conflicts may arise from large solar and wind projects.
4. Intermittency requires storage and grid modernisation.

Way Forward

1. Expand battery storage and Green Energy Corridors.
2. Promote rooftop solar. e.g: PM Surya Ghar.
3. Develop green hydrogen and domestic clean-tech manufacturing.

India’s clean energy transition can combine energy security, employment and industrial growth with lower emissions, making sustainability a driver of development.